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Recess is often thought of as an “extra” activity in the school day. Sometimes it’s even taken away from students as a punishment. In this episode recorded for De Facto Leaders, host Dr. Karen Dudek-Brannan talks to Elizabeth Cushing, CEO of Playworks, to understand why recess is actually an integral part of the school day. In fact, it can help students feel connected and reduce chronic absenteeism.  The conversation covers: Simple ways educators can set expectations and rules to create structure and a sense of safety around recessHow to use play as a reset and a preventative measure, instead of something that’s taken away from kids as a punishmentHow training kids as peer coaches can help decrease disruptive behaviors and help kids discover their own leadership potential Learn more about Playworks on their website at: https://www.playworks.org/ Resources mentioned in this interview include: Comprehensive Game Guide that Outlines Games Across Grade Levels: https://www.playworks.org/indiana/game-guide/ The sister website for Playworks with tools for assessing the health of your school’s recess: https://www.recesslab.org/

This week, we're sharing a special episode from The Learning Experience powered by CAST, part of the Be Podcast Network. You'll hear from Matt Winters, a leader from the Utah State Board of Education, discussing how artificial intelligence is shaping the future of teaching and learning. The conversation explores Utah’s statewide approach to AI, what it means for educators and students, and how schools can balance innovation with responsibility. The episode offers practical insights and big-picture thinking for anyone curious about the role of AI in education. This episode is brought to you by ReadSpeaker. Learn more about how ReadSpeaker aligns with UDL. Transcript Resources: USBE Artificial Intelligence ReadSpeaker and UDL Listen and subscribe to The Learning Experience powered by CAST: https://www.cast.org/connect/learning-experience-podcast

In this episode from the Be Podcast Network original series, The Learning Bridge with Richard Gerver, bestselling author, global speaker, futurist, researcher, and consultant Chloe Combi shares her expertise on Generation Z and Generation A. Combi has interviewed over 20,000 young people globally and utilizes that expertise to help schools, brands, companies, governments, and institutions understand and prepare for the present and future. Her expertise, research and data has her in huge demand with global companies, brands and governments and whether they want insight pieces, future-proofing, coaching, high level and entertaining talks, TV or radio work or transformational creative input. In light of the recent Netflix series, Adolescence, this is a timely conversation about supporting young people in incredibly complex times. Subscribe to The Learning Bridge wherever you get your podcasts: https://thelearningbridge.bepodcast.network/subscribe  About the host Richard Gerver is a sought-after speaker, world-renowned thinker, and bestselling author of books including Change and Simple Thinking. His career began in education, first as a teacher and then as a school principal, when he turned the fortunes of a failing school and its pupils around in just two years. Now regarded as one of the world's leading thinkers on human leadership and organizational transformation, Richard has worked with an extraordinary range of people, from elite athletes to former US President Barack Obama. Named UK Business Speaker of the Year three times, Richard has been invited to speak on the world’s most recognized stages, including TED, the RSA and the BBC.

In this Transformative Principal vault episode from the Transformative Leadership Summit, host Jethro Jones interviews Will Parker, a high school principal from northeastern Oklahoma, about implementing KRAs (Key Responsibility Areas) in schools. Will shares how he adapted Dave Ramsey's organizational management concept to create clarity and accountability for all staff members—from secretaries and counselors to administrators. The conversation explores how defining specific responsibility areas upfront prevents confusion, enables cross-training, improves hiring processes, and creates a supportive environment where everyone understands their role. Will emphasizes that KRAs are living documents revisited annually, helping schools manage organizational structure effectively, especially during transitions like budget cuts or staff changes.

In this episode of the EdTech Startup Showcase, host Jeff Bradbury interviews Mike Cronley, co-founder and CEO of Class Composer and former third-grade teacher. Mike shares his journey from the classroom to entrepreneurship, sparked by a casual conversation with his school's music teacher about students being incorrectly placed together. This "aha moment" led him to develop Class Composer, a software solution that helps elementary schools create balanced, equitable classroom rosters. Over seven years, Mike transitioned from teaching while developing his idea as a side project to fully committing to his startup. The conversation explores the challenges of the traditional paper-based class placement process, the importance of listening to customers, and advice for educators considering entrepreneurship.

In this episode, originally from Transformative Principal, host Jethro Jones interviews Joel Lavin, an equity and inclusion administrator in Eugene, Oregon, with 25 years of experience in public education.  Joel shares insights into his work supporting high school students with disabilities, focusing on transition services that help students move from school to adulthood. The conversation covers the importance of inclusive practices, unifying specialized programs, and providing real-life experiences through initiatives like CTE (Career Technical Education) and the Future Build program.  Joel and Jethro discuss the challenges and successes of integrating students with disabilities into broader educational and extracurricular opportunities, including unified sports and robotics. The episode features personal stories that highlight the impact of these programs on student confidence, independence, and community involvement, emphasizing the value of collaboration among educators to create inclusive environments. Follow Transformative Principal here: https://transformativeprincipal.org

In this episode, originally from Transformative Principal, Jethro Jones talks with Dr. Jayne Lammers, a dissertation coach, about the importance of having systems and support to complete a dissertation. They discuss Dr. Lammers' experience, the role of a dissertation coach, and various strategies such as weekly accountability check-ins, peer exchanges, and 'shut up and write' sessions to help doctoral students succeed. Join DAGGER 🗡️ Doc Student SupportJayne’s interview on TP Episode 592 Weekly Accountability Group Meetings: the momentum generated by showing upShut Up and Write Sessions: the power of social writing sessions (or isolated writing)Setting Goals: making them attainable and humane, not just SMART (and why that matters for doc students, especially)Peer Exchanges: why it’s worth your time to read your peers’ work, even when you feel you have limited time for your own About Jayne Lammers Dr. Jayne C. Lammers is a former tenured professor and Fulbright U.S. Scholar who has been supporting doctoral students since 2010. She now works as the Director of Learning Design for Edmentum, a K-12 digital learning and assessment provider, but remains connected to academia as a dissertation coach for the University of Pennsylvania’s Graduate School of Education. Through Dr. Jayne Consulting Services, she helps researchers thrive by creating systems of accountability that turn the overwhelm into steady progress, and even joy! She’s been developing these systems through her work with academic writers at top U.S. institutions and in Indonesia.  Whether someone is a doctoral student navigating the dissertation process or a faculty member stretched too thin, Jayne is there to help. Her approach, affectionately called “lovin’ and shovin’” by a recent student participant, blends compassionate accountability with a no-shame attitude. She meets people where they are and then encourages them to make meaningful progress on their writing, research, goals, and future. At the heart of everything she does is a commitment to making academia a more humane and rewarding experience for everyone involved. Those curious about her scholarship can check it out on ORCiD or Google Scholar. Those interested in what she’s up to professionally can follow her on LinkedIn. Her Curriculum Vitae, current as of May 2025, is also available. (00:00) - TP Jayne Lammers Dissertation Coach (00:38) - Introduction and Background (01:55) - Dr. Jayne Lammers' Experience and Background (06:58) - The Role of a Dissertation Coach vs Chair (15:42) - Systems for Dissertation Success (25:10) - The Power of Peer Exchange (28:58) - The Value of Coaching and Next Steps

In this episode, originally from Artificial Intelligence: Real Talk, Jethro Jones interviews Derek "DC" Crager, a passionate advocate for making artificial intelligence accessible, especially for the neurodiverse community.  DC shares his personal experiences as an autistic individual and discusses how AI can empower people with autism, ADHD, and dyslexia to enhance their skills and independence. The conversation explores the unique challenges neurodiverse individuals face, the importance of supportive AI interfaces, and how technology can provide cognitive equity and a patient, understanding companion. DC also explains his work with Practical AI and AI for Autistics, offering insights into building inclusive tools and communities that help neurodiverse people thrive in education and employment. The episode highlights the transformative potential of AI as both a mentor and a bridge for communication, learning, and self-advocacy. Learn more about the series, Artificial Intelligence: Real Talk by visiting https://avisionforlearning.com

In this episode, originally from the EdTech Startup Showcase, Ben Gustafson of Classroom Mosaic and Jeff McCoy, associate superintendent for Greenville County Schools in South Carolina, connect with host Scott Schuette.   They talk about: How Greenville "electronicized" observation with Classroom Mosaic Greenville's objective to get more insight into classrooms and transform instructionHelping principals become better instructional leaders and the impact on student achievementExcellent support for new administrators and new coachesHow to use proven frameworks and modify them for local needsHear more about Classroom Mosaic:We help K-12 leaders support, develop, and retain their teachers. For over a decade, we've worked with educators worldwide from districts large (100k students) and small (150 students) to transform instructional practice, guide professional development, and impact student learning. We believe every student deserves a great education. And a great education starts with great teachers supported by great leaders. Learn more:  classroommosaic.comtwitter.com/ClassroomMosaic linkedin.com/company/classroommosaic/twitter.com/Ben__Gustafson linkedin.com/in/bengus28/

Today we're sharing an episode from De Facto Leaders, a popular show on the Be Podcast Network. Ever feel like your school is trying all the “right” strategies—social skills groups, planners, behavior charts—but students still struggle with time management, motivation, and peer relationships? You’re not alone—and there’s a reason why. This episode is a clip from Dr. Karen Dudek-Brannan's free training, “Create a Research-Based Implementation Plan for your School Team.” It’s designed for school leaders who want to guide their teams in embedding executive functioning support across both general and special education settings—without burning out staff. This episode is for you if you’re ready to:✔️ Help students truly benefit from academic instruction✔️ Support social-emotional growth alongside learning✔️ Avoid overwhelming your team with another “initiative” This episode is the first half of the training in audio format, but to view the whole training with the video, you can go to drkarendudekbrannan.com/efteams. Listen and subscribe at https://defactoleaders.com

In this episode, from The Learning Bridge on the Be Podcast Network, host Richard Gerver speaks with BAFTA award-winning broadcasters, legendary music industry veterans, and parents of four children, Carrie and David Grant.  Hear about the very different, yet similarly challenging childhoods Carrie and David each navigated. We discuss their journeys into the entertainment industry, as well as the growth of their relationship, and their various roles as singers, presenters, talent show judges, and singing coaches to the stars.  We also talk about their family and in particular their four neurodivergent children. Carrie and David discuss what they’ve learnt about their children and how they champion each of them. They also explain what the education system needs to understand about the challenges they and millions of parents like them face. Carrie talks about her own recent diagnosis of being autistic.  Subscribe to The Learning Bridge wherever you get your podcasts: https://thelearningbridge.bepodcast.network/subscribe  About the host Richard Gerver is a sought-after speaker, world-renowned thinker, and bestselling author of books including Change and Simple Thinking. His career began in education, first as a teacher and then as a school principal, when he turned the fortunes of a failing school and its pupils around in just two years. Now regarded as one of the world's leading thinkers on human leadership and organisational transformation, Richard has worked with an extraordinary range of people, from elite athletes to former US President Barack Obama. Named UK Business Speaker of the Year three times, Richard has been invited to speak on the world’s most recognised stages, including TED, the RSA and the BBC. Follow Richard on Twitter @richardgerver and on LinkedIn.  (00:00) - Carrie and David Grant (00:08) - Introduction and Podcast Overview (01:25) - Guest Introduction: David and Carrie Grant (01:41) - David and Carrie's Personal Journey (02:53) - Transition into the Arts and Entertainment Industry (03:58) - Impact of Fame and Success (04:16) - Raising Neurodivergent Children and Advocacy (07:12) - Reflections on Personal Growth and Self-Perception (24:56) - The Power of Honesty and Constructive Criticism (26:31) - The Struggles of Neurodivergent People (27:51) - The Importance of Truth and Honesty in Relationships (30:40) - The Challenges of Parenting Neurodivergent Children (35:02) - The Power of Emotional Intelligence and Understanding (43:23) - The Future of Education and Leadership

Today we're excited to share an episode from De Facto Leaders, hosted by Dr. Karen Dudek-Brannan.  Karen announces the release of her new compression course, “The School Leader’s Guide to Executive Functioning Support.”  You can learn more about the course here: https://drkarenspeech.lpages.co/school-leaders-guide-to-executive-functioning-support/ In this session, Karen shares why she created this program, what parents and professionals have shared with her when she talks about executive functioning, and how she approaches educating professionals about this important and relevant topic. Imagine a school where: ✅ Students are better equipped to handle challenges and setbacks ✅ Teachers spend less time managing behavior and more time on meaningful instruction ✅ Academic performance improves across the board ✅ Your team feels empowered and supported, rather than overwhelmed by another initiative Introducing: The School Leader's Guide to Executive Functioning Support After years of developing frameworks to support these essential cognitive skills and helping professionals implement them in their own schools, I've created a comprehensive guide specifically for school leaders like you. Listen to De Facto Leaders on the Be Podcast Network: https://defactoleaders.com/

In this episode, originally published on Transformative Principal, Jethro Jones introduces a special conversation between Dr. Erin Bailey, Vice President of Literacy Programs and Research at Reading is Fundamental, and Barb Solish, the NAMI National Director of Innovation. They discuss the partnership between Reading is Fundamental (RIF) and the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), supported by Macy's, to provide books and mental health resources to children nationwide.  The conversation dives into the youth mental health crisis, the literacy crisis, and how these two organizations are working together to support children's mental and emotional well-being through literacy and other resources. NAMI and RIF joining together with the support of Macy’sBeing next to someone is powerfulName it to tame it. Identifying emotions for kids is powerfulLiteracy for skills in both areas. The power of a mother reading aloud to her children. NICU mothers reading aloud to kids every day lowered rates of post-partum depression and stress. Routine and trust are built together. Early intervention The Presence and the connection is what really matters. Listen to more from Transformative Principal: https://transformativeprincipal.org (00:00) - TP RIF & NAMI Episode (00:34) - Intro (29:19) - Jethro's final outtro

Today we're happy to bring you an episode from Transformative Principal.  In this episode, Jethro D. Jones welcomes back Craig Randall to discuss the evolution of trust-based observations and its impact on improving teaching and learning. Craig shares insights from his podcast '20 Minutes of Teaching Brilliance (On the Road with Trust-Based Observations)' and delves into the challenges and strategies for writing and implementing effective educational practices. Nerding about the writing process. When the idea comes, you’ve got to take it. How Trust-Based Observations has evolved. You learn something new every single week. Coaching model vs. Trust-Based ObservationsWe have blind spots, if we leave it to that model, we may not have the solution they need. Cumulatively add the activities to the lesson to show the most learning. Intensive training, really goes deep. Don’t offer suggestions until the fourth visit because we haven’t built enough trust. Asking permission to offer a suggestion. Observation form available on the web site. 9 areas of pedagogy hasn’t changed. Relational trust hasn’t changed. TBO is collective teacher efficacy in actionHow we lower vulnerability to get people to take risks is by building trust. Craig’s podcast - 20 Minutes of Teaching Brilliance (On the Road with Trust-Based Observations)

Tim Bradshaw is a real life James Bond. He is a former Intelligence Officer and graduate of Sandhurst Military Academy. By 20 years old he was leading a unit of nearly 40 soldiers. His work as a Covert Human Intelligence Officer saw him recruit, run and build relationships with foreign agents worldwide. Often creating influence and affecting the outcome of extremely sensitive and dangerous situations. Tim founded, and is a director of Sandstone Communications, an international leadership and team building consultancy. He is Chief Executive Officer of the Sandstone Foundation delivering resilience workshops to schools and young people. In this episode of The Learning Bridge, he speaks with Richard Gerver about leadership and learning and how resilience is linked to passion and purpose. As Tim looks back on his life and career we explore the power of human relationships and connecting the dots. Subscribe to The Learning Bridge wherever you get your podcasts: https://thelearningbridge.bepodcast.network/subscribe  About the host Richard Gerver is a sought-after speaker, world-renowned thinker, and bestselling author of books including Change and Simple Thinking. His career began in education, first as a teacher and then as a school principal, when he turned the fortunes of a failing school and its pupils around in just two years. Now regarded as one of the world's leading thinkers on human leadership and organisational transformation, Richard has worked with an extraordinary range of people, from elite athletes to former US President Barack Obama. Named UK Business Speaker of the Year three times, Richard has been invited to speak on the world’s most recognised stages, including TED, the RSA and the BBC. Explore more BE Podcast Network shows: Transformative Principal: https://bit.ly/3vPSMY3 The Authority Podcast: https://bit.ly/48dhakQ Artificial Intelligence: Real Talk: https://bit.ly/3QxEh2j Better Teaching: Only Stuff That Works: https://bit.ly/3DhvVIPSideline Sessions: https://bit.ly/49Pib2P